Finland is a country where nature connects with the mythical world of lakes, rivers and virgin forests. If you are ready to break free from the concrete jungle and taste in the endless landscapes, I invite you to hiking around Finnish national parks - places where wildness meets charm.
Nuuksio National Park - nature close to the city
Nuuksio is an ideal destination for those who are looking for wild nature near Helsinki. The park offers numerous attractions, such as swimming lakes, picnic spaces, as well as routes of varying degrees of difficulty, including Haukkalampi and Maahisenkierros, which lead through picturesque forests and heaths. The park is located only 35 km from the capital, which makes it available to residents and tourists who want to escape from the hustle and bustle. Walking along numerous trails, such as Haukkalampi, you will feel as if you were millions of kilometers from civilization.
Introduction prices: Free Address: Haukkalammentie 32, 02820 Espoo
Interesting fact : Nuuksio is one of the few places where you can meet flying squirrels, which, although not superheroes, can overcome up to 100 meters with one jump!
Urho Kekkonena National Park - the raw beauty of Lapland
If you dream of a total escape from civilization, Urho Kekkonen's National Park in Lapland will meet these expectations. Raw landscapes, tundra and thousands of reindeer are a landscape almost removed from an adventure book.
The park offers both short routes, such as Kilopr (4 km) and several days of expeditions, for example, a route from Kilopää to Suomunruokt (20 km), which leads through picturesque valleys and tundra. We also recommend a trip to the lookout tower on the Kilopää hill, from where you can admire the amazing panorama of the tundra.
Prices: Free admission Address: Kilopänie 620, 99830 Saariselkä
Tip : Don't forget to take good trekking shoes with you! The Finnish tundra can be insidious and easily soaked ordinary shoes. And don't be fooled - reindeer may look friendly, but they are not interested in selfie.
Koli National Park - mystical landscape of lakes
Park Koli is a place that has been inspired by artists and writers for centuries - Pielinen Lake and majestic hills created a scenery for the Finnish soul. One of the artists who drew inspiration from these landscapes was Eero Järnefelt, whose paintings reflect the mystical beauty of this region. Wandering to the Ukko-Koli peak (347 m above sea level) is a must-see point of every trip.
Prices: free admission, parking-approx. 5 EUR/day address: Ylä-Kintie 39, 83960 Koli
Interesting fact : the view from Ukko-Kola is immortalized on many Finnish paintings and postcards. Perhaps, standing at the top, you will understand why the Finns love their nature.
Oulanka National Park - on the edge of the North
Located on the border with Russia, the Oulanka Park is a real gem among Finnish national parks. The most famous trail - Karhunker ("Bear Trail") - is a real test test, but also the opportunity to see waterfalls such as Kiutaköngäs, and spectacular views from viewpoints such as Ristikallio and Oulanka Canyon.
Prices: Free admission Address: Liikasenvaarantie 132, 93999 Kuusamo
Tip : Oulanka is a place where you can meet an elk. So, if you notice strange cracks in the forest, don't panic - it can only be a Finnish "bear". Only without screaming, because the moose is not a small friend.
Pyhä- Losto National Park- volcanic landscapes
Pyhä-Losto is a national park known for the volcanic hills, which are one of the oldest mountain formations on Earth. The trails lead through the landscapes of full magic, thanks to which every step in Pyhä-Losto seems to be like a journey in time.
Prices: Free admission Address: Lostontie 1, 99555 Losto
Tip : go for an evening walk - with a little luck you can find a northern lights. The Finnish view of the aurora evokes much more emotion than the new season of the series on Netflix!
Repovesi National Park - a paradise for climbers
If you like climbing, repovesi is a place for you. There you will find rock cliffs with a height of over 50 meters, which are a paradise for adrenaline lovers. The Lapinsalmi trail leads through picturesque areas, including through a well -known hanging bridge, which guarantees shivers on the back!
Prices: free admission, parking 5 eur/day address: Kuismantie 990, 47910 Hillosensalmi
Tip : Remember not to look down on the hanging bridge - unless of course you do not want to test your knees.
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park-peace and extensive views
Pallas-yllästunturi is a place where time has stopped and the tops of the hills are connected with the sky. This is the second largest national park in Finland, known for its extensive panoramas and trekking routes.
Prices: Free admission Address: Pallastunturintie 557, 99330 Muonio
Tip : Don't forget a coffee thermos - Finns say that the best way to admire the views is sitting at the top with a cup of black coffee.
Finland's national parks are not only places for hiking, but also a chance to discover what real, unchanged nature is. Without noise of cities, without crowds - only you, forest sound and space.
So go ahead! Jump into trekking shoes and let Finland show you its most beautiful face. It is also worth using the services of local guides who will help discover hidden corners and tell interesting stories about these places.
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